Little Free Pantry at Sharpsburg Community Library will help combat hunger

A new little pantry in Sharpsburg will help combat hunger and provide necessities that people might not be able to afford.

The free food box will be erected at the Sharpsburg Community Library along Main Street. Filled with canned soup, boxed meals, beverages or basic toiletries, the pantry is expected to be open by the end of February.

“There are already amazing organizations in the borough that offer produce boxes and grab-and-go meals, but all of these services have set hours,” library Director Sara Mariacher said. “The library’s Little Free Pantry will complement existing services by being accessible 24 hours per day.”

Also, Mariacher said the easily accessible box might provide users a bit of anonymity because of its around-the-clock hours.

The pantry is under construction. It will be 24x18x20 inches and sit about 3 feet off the ground.

Spurred by a large donation in honor of a library patron, the decision was made to build the food pantry because it would serve the community at large.

Bellevue-based MDI Contracting is constructing the pantry, which will be equipped with a solar light so people can view the contents any time.

“It will also have plexiglass doors so its contents should be viewable without having to rummage,” Mariacher said.

Sharpsburg council President Brittany Reno said the idea is exciting for residents.

Library Executive Director Jill McConnell said she’s grateful for the chance to expand the library’s services to the community.

When it is installed near the steps leading into the library, site assistant Jamie Cozza will oversee the inventory and plans to compile a wish list for items most frequently taken.

She will be seeking volunteers who are available at least once a month to stock the pantry, check expiration dates and organize overflow items.

Mariacher asked that pantry items be dropped off with a library staff member or volunteer, not put directly into the pantry.